On May 21, 2025, the Lifers Group—an iconic hip-hop collective formed by incarcerated men at East Jersey State Prison—made a bold return with the release of their new single and video, “State N#mber.” This powerful release is their first in over three decades and marks a striking continuation of their mission to expose the harsh realities of prison life through raw and honest lyricism.
“State N#mber” is a gritty and emotionally charged track that explores the dehumanization of incarcerated individuals. The title itself references the inmate identification system, symbolizing how the prison complex strips people of their names, identities, and individuality. Delivered over a heavy, minimalist beat, the lyrics are direct and unfiltered—painting vivid images of confinement, lost time, and institutional neglect.
The accompanying video, shot near the prison,captures a bleak vision of Rahway Prison brings the track to life with haunting visuals. The camera lingers on barbed wire fences, flickering lights, and slow-motion scenes explaining daily prison life, creating an atmosphere of tension, introspection, and suppressed emotion.
What sets the Lifers Group apart is the authenticity behind every word. These artists aren’t imagining prison life—they’re living it. That lived experience gives their music a gravity and purpose rarely found in mainstream hip-hop. “State N#mber” is not just a song; it’s a protest, a memoir, and a form of resistance.
This new release arrives at a crucial time. As the conversation around mass incarceration, sentencing reform, and prison conditions continues to grow, the Lifers Group offers a firsthand perspective that demands to be heard. Their work stands as both a cultural document and a call to action.
For longtime fans and new listeners alike, “State N#mber” is a reminder of hip-hop’s roots in truth-telling and social commentary. The Lifers Group continues to use their voices—despite the walls around them—to challenge injustice and demand recognition.
Stream “State N#mber” now on all major platforms, and watch the video for a sobering, unforgettable look inside one of America’s most powerful institutions.
Stream State N#mber on all platforms here : Lifers Group – State N#mber
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